A Quick Guide to Becoming an Enterprise Architect
If you’re considering becoming an enterprise architect, we can’t say we blame you. With an average salary of about $150,000 per year, who wouldn’t want to go into this complicated but rewarding field?
The truth is that not many people know how to break into enterprise architecture. Few schools offer degrees specifically catered toward enterprise architecture and, quite frankly, few employers understand exactly what an enterprise architect does.
The good news is that there is a clear-cut path to becoming an enterprise architect. We’re going to tell you what you need to do before finding a job in the field.
Read on to learn how to get your enterprise architect career in motion.
Start With the Right Degree
As we mentioned earlier, there aren’t many schools offering degrees in enterprise architecture, at least at the undergraduate level. Instead, get a degree in something like IT or computer programming.
Most of the time, you can break into the field without going to graduate school. However, you may find that more doors open if you have a Master’s in enterprise architecture or a relevant tech field. Start the job hunt before you dive into grad school to make sure that another degree is really worth it.
Get the Right Certification
Getting certified in a few different programs or skill sets will make it much easier to fulfill the specific role of an enterprise architect. Certification is a cost-effective and less time-consuming way to build up your resume than going into a graduate program.
That said, you could spend years collecting certifications in relevant programs or skill sets. Try to focus on the ones that matter most. TOGAF is the most important certification you can receive to show that you are the right person to become a company’s enterprise architect.
Put Yourself Out There
If you didn’t know already, enterprise architects are considered some of the top leaders in any company. Typically, they report to the CIO. If you want to take on that role, whether with a new company or the one you already work for, you’re going to need to demonstrate some well-rounded knowledge and leadership skills.
Get to know the goings-on in other departments by asking to sit in on their meetings or contribute to projects. Take a more active role in the tech side of things, rather than waiting to have work assigned to you. Show the CEO and CIO that not only are you prepared for the job but that you’re always willing to engage with company projects at all levels.
Land Your Dream Job as an Enterprise Architect
Becoming an enterprise architect isn’t for everyone. Not only does it require a deep knowledge of technology and computer programming but it is also a top leadership role. Use this guide to make your way toward a new job as an enterprise architect.
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